Superintendent's News

We are nearing the end of the 2021-2022 school year, to which many might say, “Good Riddance.”

I understand if you feel a bit downbeat after this crazy year filled with challenge, controversy, and frustration. 

Please don’t. Instead, consider all you have accomplished despite the many obstacles in your way. There’s plenty of proof of your success – in the classroom, on the field and stage, flowing through the community.

A couple of weeks ago, I attended Gold Bar, the APS Education Foundation’s recognition dinner for outstanding students, teachers, APS supporters, and alumni. The night included entertainment by talented student dancers, musicians, and even a DJ Club that chose Star Wars and Harry Potter walk-up music for me. Three of our students emceed the event, charming the audience and getting in a few friendly jabs. 

The focus of the evening – in addition to the decadent peanut butter and chocolate treats the event is named after – was the Best in Class nominees who have used grant money for innovative projects and programs impacting student achievement. This year’s winner was Eisenhower Middle School for its Where Everybody Belongs peer mentorship program. Runners up were the Sandia High School Graphic Design Club and Next Generation Biology at Garfield STEM Magnet Middle School. 

Proof of the amazing teaching, learning, and support that happens in all of our schools every day.

I have attended as many Class of 2022 graduation ceremonies as I could this week, where I watched thousands of students in caps and gowns proudly walk across the stage to pick up high school diplomas as family, classmates, teachers, and staff cheered them on. 

Proof of the difference we make in the lives and futures not only of our students but their families and communities. 

Some of our graduation ceremonies were held at Berna Facio, which is also hosting the Art is Elementary exhibit featuring the work of many very creative APS kindergarteners through fifth graders. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, you have until May 17. You can also see some incredible photography by our high school students at the Focus on Youth exhibit at the Albuquerque Museum through June 5.

Proof of the talent we nurture, the guidance we provide, our coaching, mentoring, and advisement. 

The final weeks of school are filled with ceremonies, concerts, exhibitions, competitions, and events that showcase student achievement. I am so proud of our students for all they have accomplished this school year despite the hurdles they had to overcome. 

And I am grateful to the employees of Albuquerque Public Schools who helped our students over each of these humps so they could have fun while learning, growing, and blossoming. 

Need proof that kids know how to have fun, even in during a pandemic? Watch the senior slideshow featuring the Class of 2022’s final year in our schools. They’re having the time of their life as they should.

Still more proof of our success.

Senior Video for Class of 2022